British University and College Union condemns US sanctions on PDVSA

At its annual Congress held at the Harrogate International Centre, from Saturday 28 May to Monday 30 May 2011, the University and College Union, has passed a unanimous resolution condemning US sanctions against PDVSA.

UCU is the largest trade union and professional association for academics, lecturers, trainers, researchers and academic-related staff working in further and higher education throughout the UK, with more than 120,000 members.

The emergency motion was moved today, May 29, by Darrall Cozens, delegate from the West Midlands retired members' branch, who is also a member of the Hands Off Venezuela Steering Committee. Here is the full text of the motion:

"UCU congres notes the unilateral and unlawful sanctions imposed by the US administration against the Venezuelan oil company PDVSA for trading with Iran. Venezuela is a sovereign country and has the right to trade with any country it chooses.

Congress notes that oil revenues from PDVSA are crucial in funding the massive social programmes (Misiones) of the Bolivarian government in health care, education, job creation and housing.

UCU congress:

strongly condemns US sanctions against PDVSA

rejects the growing campaign of demonisation of the Venezuelan revolution, which is deliberately timed to coincide with the run-up to the 2012 presidential elections.

reiterates its support for the Bolivarian revolution

calls on the trade union, solidarity, youth and progressive movements of the world to mobilise in solidarity with the Bolivarian revolution against this latest act of imperialist aggression.

continues to affiliate and work with the Hands Off Venezuela campaign"